Chris Wyatt's best catch yet: behind the scenes at the Big Bash

Chris Wyatt has taken some big catches this season for the Wentworth Falls Cricket Club, but his biggest catch so far has been securing an event internship with the Big Bash League’s Sydney Thunder.

“It’s a dream come true to be working at such a world-class cricket event,” the ACPE Bachelor of Sports Coaching student said. “I’m loving every minute of it.”

In his role, Chris helps the Events team ensure match days run smoothly and members and fans have a great experience. While his background in cricket is an advantage, he said the Sydney Thunder team made him comfortable from the start. “It’s hard work and there’s so much to do but you’re learning so much on the go.”

Working as an intern two days per week, Chris’ tasks vary from organising player headshots for posters to setting up company marquees and sponsors’ giveaways. But by far his favourite intern activity is taking players to the family zone, where they spend time meeting the fans, taking photos and signing autographs.

“It’s amazing to be involved with the fans and the players,” he said. “I will never forget it.”

Chris has played cricket for 14 years and coached the Under 10s at his club for the last two. At the end of school, he thought he’d have to leave cricket behind to pursue a career. That was until he went to a young leaders’ day at Olympic Park.

“Australian champion Jess Fox was there and she spoke about how you can balance study and sport,” Chris said. “I decided on ACPE that day.”

Living in the Blue Mountains, Chris catches three trains, travelling for almost two hours to get to ACPE and his Sydney Thunder internship. Now in the second year of study, he credits his Dad for encouraging him to stick with study and cricket.

“My Dad got me involved in cricket, he’s the captain of my club, and he’s the one who always says, ‘You can do it.’ One day I’d love to be a professional cricket coach for Australia or a state cricket team. You’ve got to believe in yourself.”

For now, Chris is ecstatic to be behind the scenes at the Big Bash League and soaking up all the experience he can. “It’s one helluva ride,” he said.